Frank Lampard delighted as Chelsea confirm contract extensions for two players

Posted Thursday, May 21, 2020 by Express.co.uk

Chelsea duo Olivier Giroud and Willy Caballero have extended their contracts until the end of the 2020/21 campaign.

Frank Lampard is a happy man after Chelsea confirmed contract extensions for Olivier Giroud and Willy Caballero. The Blues duo were about to enter the final month of their deals but will be staying for the 2020/21 campaign.

Chelsea bosses have activated a one-year option to keep striker Giroud, who was close to leaving for Inter Milan in January. The 33-year-old has been a fringe figure under Lampard, making only 13 appearances this term, but the Chelsea boss is delighted to have secured his future.

"Since I have been back at Chelsea, Olivier has been brilliant as a professional and as a man in general," he said.

"He has great qualities to help the squad both on and off the pitch, not only with his talent but with the example he sets every day and the experience he brings to our young squad. I am very pleased that will continue next season."

Caballero has been Chelsea's No 2 goalkeeper since arriving from Manchester City on a free transfer in 2017.

Frank Lampard delighted as Chelsea confirm contract extensions for two players
Chelsea news: Frank Lampard is delighted with the contract renewals (Image: GETTY)

Frank Lampard delighted as Chelsea confirm contract extensions for two players
Chelsea news: Olivier Giroud almost left in January (Image: GETTY)

The 38-year-old is a reliable man between the sticks, however, and enjoyed a run in the team earlier this year when Kepa Arrizabalaga was dropped.

Lampard said: "I trust in Willy, he trains brilliantly and is a great professional. He stepped into the team earlier this year and showed his quality, and his experience is invaluable in the dressing room.

"I’m delighted he will be with us next season."

Giroud has been heavily linked with a move to Serie A since his failed move to Inter Milan in January.

Frank Lampard delighted as Chelsea confirm contract extensions for two players
Chelsea news: Willy Caballero is staying for another season (Image: GETTY)

The new deal offers both player and club security, however, amid concerns the coronavirus crisis could dramatically alter the transfer market.

Giroud said: "I am delighted to continue my journey and adventure at Chelsea.

"I can’t wait to get back to playing and enjoying competitive football with my team-mates.

"I’m looking forward to wearing the Chelsea shirt again, especially in front of our fans at a full Stamford Bridge, whenever it is safe to do so."

Caballero, who has made 31 appearances in three seasons for Chelsea, said: "I am very happy to make this announcement. It is a privilege to be part of this Chelsea squad and the Chelsea family, at one of the most historic clubs in the Premier League.

"It is a difficult time for everyone right now so I feel blessed by this opportunity and truly appreciate it.

"I want to thank my team-mates for helping me to be my best and I want to thank the boss and the club for extending my contract.

"I’m sure they will continue to demand the maximum from me and I will compete with the same energy as always. I am very happy."